The Clarinet BBoard

The Clarinet BBoard The C4 standard

New Topic | Go to Top | Go to Topic | Search | Help/Rules | Smileys/Notes | Log In

Previous Message | Next Message

Re: Rhapsody in Blue -- No not the gliss!

Author: Ed Palanker
Date: 2008-02-28 22:17

Swinging it is not usually a problem for a professional orchestra in the USA because we’re used to doing Pops concerts. The conductor just says, “Swing this section” and it’s done. Sometimes the player asks if this section should swing. It’s a non-issue here in Baltimore.
In reference to Larry Bocaner saying sorry to me let me explain. The solo in the bass clarinet part in Grofe’s version is written an octave higher then in the orignal version but it is now doubled in the cellos in the lower octave. It is true that most players do it an octave lower when playing the Grofe version, I’ve always done it as written and here’s why. By the way, I’ve been playing it that way for 45 years now in the BSO with tons of different conductors and pianists and no one has ever asked me to do it an octave lower. When we do the original version I play it as written, in the lower octave.
Because it is now doubled in the cellos when playing it an octave lower you’re playing the same notes in the same register, it is no longer a solo and in many recordings it just blends and you can’t tell the bass clarinet is even playing unless they mic it up. So I always play it as written, an octave higher then the cellos, so it’s a solo not doubling the entire cello section. Makes sense to me and no complaints though it is much more difficult because it’s on the break of the bass clarinet. At an audition you should play it in the lower octave but be prepared to play it both ways just in case. But I am in the minority. (But I’m right) ESP
www.peabody.jhu.edu/457

Reply To Message | Avail. Forums | Flat View

Newer Topic | Older Topic

Topics